South Korea, the United States and Japan have begun the 2026 Freedom Edge joint military exercise, with the five-day drills taking place in international waters east and south of South Korea’s Jeju Island.
The annual exercise involves maritime, air and cyber operations designed to strengthen coordination and response capabilities between the three countries.
Key developments:
- South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said the exercise is defensive in nature and conducted under international law.
- The drills aim to improve deterrence and response capabilities against North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats.
- The exercise follows a reduction in the scale of the Ulchi Freedom Shield drills between South Korea and the US.
The 2026 Freedom Edge is the fourth iteration since its launch in June 2024, featuring enhanced data sharing, air defence scenarios and maritime operations.
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